Carla Manganello
Real Estate Agent/Restauranteur
RockWater Group | KW Commercial
Carla Manganello is an Associate Broker for RockWater Real Estate Group. Throughout her career, Carla’s success in the field of commercial real estate was derived through her extensive team building ability that cultivated relationships with local contractors and property owners, fostering smooth, cost-effective real estate solutions.
What’s one challenge – internal or external – that you’re anticipating and preparing for in the next year?
The challenges I’m preparing for are what everyone is dealing with now: material shortages and labor shortages. Selling commercial land is tough; people see dollar increases. And everything takes longer with the supply chain crisis around the world, and the material expenses still up. Unfortunately, COVID hurt a lot of businesses and the recovery has been slow. Right now, I recommend taking the opportunity to purchase or lease something that’s currently empty. Restaurants are at an all-time high for vacancies, so it’s an opportunity to start up your dream.
Do you have any daily practices that help you be your best personal and/or professional self?
One of my best daily practices in my life is a morning run. I feel like then I can focus better. I run all of the stuff out of my head, so I can get more done in my day. Also, early workouts are proven to help sleep at night.
What was the most valuable lesson you learned from a teacher or mentor?
My most valuable lesson was what my Dad taught me (he was a true entrepreneur himself!): Treat people as you would want to be treated.
When you were a child, what did you want to be when you grew up?
When I was a kid, I wanted to be a pilot, and I went to Florida Institute of Technology to learn. I got my commercial license, then my CFI- certificate to teach. I loved teaching. The most common reason people become flight instructors is to gain experience and accumulate hours to continue onto a major airline. I just loved seeing the satisfaction of people accomplishing a cross-country solo flight after I had signed them off. My students gained more respect for themselves, and felt more confident in their ability — not just to fly, but to try other things. After 9/11 the industry changed, so I went into real estate, which I love in a different way. I never look back, just forward.
If you could spend one week vacationing anywhere in the world, where would you go?
Simple, Italy! It’s part of my heritage and features all of my favorite foods! The landscaping and the history is amazing. Italy was my son’s favorite vacation even though our cell phones didn’t work over there…besides mine! So that was a bonus all around. I love family time!